Submission: Onesimus
Finding Freedom Through Submission: The Transformative Story of Onesimus
In a world where 82% of Americans live with regret and 69% carry lingering resentment, the ancient story of Onesimus offers a powerful path to freedom. This runaway slave's journey from bitterness to blessing demonstrates how true influence comes through humble submission to God's grace.
Who Was Onesimus and Why Does His Story Matter?
Onesimus was a slave who belonged to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae. Despite his master being a believer who hosted church meetings in his home, Onesimus made a desperate decision - he ran away and stole from Philemon. Traveling nearly a thousand miles to Rome, he eventually encountered the apostle Paul in prison.
This story challenges our modern sensibilities about slavery while revealing timeless truths about forgiveness, reconciliation, and transformation. Paul's letter to Philemon becomes a masterclass in how the gospel changes everything - not through force or condemnation, but through grace and love.
How Does Submission to God Create a New Identity?
When Onesimus encountered Paul in Rome, everything changed. Paul refers to him as "my son" - not biologically, but spiritually. This runaway slave had become a beloved brother in Christ.
The Power of Names and Labels
Paul cleverly plays with Onesimus's name, which means "useful." He tells Philemon that the one who was formerly "useless" has now become truly useful - both to Paul and potentially to Philemon. This wasn't just wordplay; it represented a complete transformation of identity.
We all carry labels from our past - some flattering, others painful. Perhaps you've been called names that still sting, or maybe you've labeled others in your anger or frustration. The gospel redefines us completely. When you become a follower of Jesus, God says you are His child, regardless of what others have said about you or what you've done.
What Does It Mean to Submit to Spiritual Authority?
Onesimus didn't just experience a change of heart - he submitted to spiritual authority and found new purpose. Paul describes how Onesimus served him faithfully while in prison, taking Philemon's place in ministry.
Finding Purpose Through Submission
True submission isn't weakness; it's the action of yielding to the will or authority of another. When we submit to God's authority through His Word, we discover our true calling as representatives of His grace. Onesimus went from being bitter and resentful to serving in God's kingdom.
This challenges us to examine what influences our daily decisions. Are we primarily influenced by news headlines, social media outrage, and worldly anger? Or are we submitting to God's Word and allowing it to shape our responses to life's challenges?
Why Is Reconciliation So Difficult Yet Necessary?
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of Onesimus's story is his decision to return to Philemon. Paul sent him back - not as a defeated slave, but as a transformed brother in Christ.
God Works Behind the Scenes
Paul suggests that perhaps Onesimus's separation from Philemon served a greater purpose. Like Joseph in the Old Testament, whose brothers meant harm but God used for good, sometimes God works through even our mistakes and painful circumstances.
This doesn't excuse wrong behavior, but it reminds us that God is always working behind the scenes in ways we cannot see. Romans 8:28 promises that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him."
The Ministry of Reconciliation
When God reconciles us to Himself through Christ, He gives us a ministry of reconciliation. This means the grace doesn't stop with us - we're called to extend it to others. Sometimes this requires going back to people we've wronged to make amends. Other times it means forgiving those who have hurt us.
What Was the Long-Term Impact of Onesimus's Transformation?
The influence of Onesimus extended far beyond his personal story. Scripture reveals that he carried Paul's letters to various churches, including the books of Colossians, Ephesians, and Philippians. Paul describes him as a "faithful and dear brother" who could explain the teachings to the churches.
Historical records suggest Onesimus eventually became the bishop of the church in Ephesus, one of the most prominent cities in the region. Imagine his powerful testimony - a former runaway slave who experienced God's transforming grace and could speak authentically about forgiveness and reconciliation.
How Can We Clothe Ourselves with Christ Daily?
Galatians 3:26-28 reminds us that in Christ, we are all children of God, clothed with Christ Himself. This beautiful imagery suggests that just as we carefully choose our physical clothing each morning, we should intentionally clothe ourselves with Christ's character.
When we're clothed with Christ, the divisions that separate us - race, social status, gender - become irrelevant. We're all one in Christ Jesus, called to demonstrate His love and grace to a watching world.
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to live as someone clothed with Christ's grace. Before you start each day, ask Jesus to wrap His love around your heart, mind, and conversations. When you encounter people who frustrate or anger you, remember that God loves them just as much as He loves you.
Consider whether there are relationships in your life that need reconciliation. Is there someone you need to forgive? Someone you need to apologize to? Like Onesimus, you might need to humble yourself and take the first step toward healing.
Instead of sharing posts about everything wrong with the world, consider sharing God's grace and hope. Let your influence be like Onesimus - demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel through your changed life.
Questions for Reflection:
What labels from your past do you need to surrender to God's definition of who you are?
Are you primarily influenced by God's Word or by the anger and outrage of the world around you?
Is there a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation, and what step can you take this week toward healing?
How can you demonstrate God's grace to someone who has wronged you or someone you disagree with?
